search warrant

American  

noun

Law.

1. a court order authorizing the examination of a dwelling or other private premises by police officials, as for stolen goods.

---

search warrant British  

noun

1. a written order issued by a justice of the peace authorizing a constable or other officer to enter and search premises for stolen goods, drugs, etc

---

Etymology

Origin of search warrant

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

Officers then secured a search warrant and conducted a flight over the area.

From Los Angeles Times

Meanwhile Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara told the BBC that state officers were blocked from accessing the scene of the shooting by federal agents, despite securing a search warrant.

From BBC

Minnesota officials have publicly questioned the federal narrative, and state investigators say federal agents initially denied them access to the scene, even after a search warrant was issued.

From Salon

Secret Service agents, who secured a search warrant, reviewed Aguayo’s phone and a shared laptop and found four Instagram accounts.

From Los Angeles Times

The journalist, Hannah Natanson, was in her Virginia home when the FBI executed the search warrant seizing her phone, personal and Washington Post laptops and a smart watch.

From Salon

Related Words

• summons